News

Attorney and business leader Fred Granum appointed President and CEO of the PSU Foundation

Author: Suzanne Pardington, University Communications

Posted: October 24, 2012

The PSU Foundation Board of Trustees has unanimously approved the appointment of Fred Granum, an attorney and business leader, as President & CEO of the Foundation.

“In Fred Granum, the Foundation has found an enterprising and respected leader, and I look forward to working with him,” said Wim Wiewel, Portland State University president. “The Foundation has enjoyed strong direction and leadership under Tony Leineweber, and I am confident that Fred will continue that work.”

Granum, a longtime Portland resident, comes to the PSU Foundation after completing an assignment as Special Counsel to the Oregon Attorney General. In his 18-month appointment, he served Gov. John Kitzhaber and former Attorney General John Kroger in their efforts to promote a more positive business climate in Oregon.

In his new role, Granum will lead the Foundation in its mission to enhance the development of Portland State University through relationships, resources and guidance. The Foundation was formed in 1963 as an independent tax-exempt organization. Gifts to the Foundation advance PSU by providing scholarships for outstanding students, supporting faculty research and instruction, and enhancing facilities and program development and growth.

“PSU is on the verge of greatness,” Granum said. “This is a perfect time to join the ranks with so many who are dedicated to fulfilling the University’s mission and achieving its destiny as a world-class institution. Given the opportunity to lead the PSU Foundation, I eagerly accepted this position so that I might help contribute to PSU's success.”

Granum has three decades of experience as a business attorney, entrepreneur, investor and business executive. He is the co-founder of two Portland-based logistics companies and is a co-owner and board member of Carrera Motors in Bend. Also active in the community, Granum has played an active role in supporting the arts and programs for youth, including his most recent service on the boards of Youth Villages, Inc. (formerly ChristieCare) and the Cascade Pacific Council of the Boy Scouts of America. Granum also serves as the President of Arlington Club in Portland.

The Foundation Board appointed Granum on Oct. 18, and he began his new role at the Foundation on Monday, Oct. 22.

“Short of having a magic wand, we couldn't have found a better fit for the Foundation’s president than Fred Granum. I expect we will one day look back on this relationship and see it as a hallmark of the Foundation’s advancement,” said Pete Nickerson, chairman of the Foundation Board.